Books We’d Pair with Dancing with the Stars 'Viral Hits Night'
Nothing hits quite like reality TV season in the fall. And one of the many shows currently occupying my watchlist? Dancing with the Stars.
Recently, I’ve found myself wondering alongside many other millennials: is DWTS actually getting good again? Or am I just at the age where I’m supposed to be watching DTWS? I fear that it’s the latter. Either way, I’m not mad about it. Go ahead and add it to the roster.
After last week’s two-night premiere, I’m officially locked in. So in the spirit of judging ballroom routines from the comfort of my couch, I matched some of last night’s standout dances with books that capture the same energy, emotion, drama, romance, or occasional chaos.
*no spoilers on scores or results - just based on real-time vibes
The Chemistry was Chemistry-ing
My Vote: Tyler Cameron and Sharna Burgess
Sharna was right, this dance was for the girls and the gays.
Book Rec:
The Graham Effect
by Elle Kennedy
Fake dating, hockey, undeniable chemistry, and feelings that get way too real.
The Plot Twist
My Vote: Guillermo Rodriguez & Witney Carson.
Ok Guillermo, you impressed me.
Book Rec:
The Silent Patient
by Alex Michaelides
A woman shoots her husband and never speaks another word. You’ll spend the whole book trying to figure out why.
The Group Chat Was Losing It
My Vote: Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach Pashkova.
It was the splits for me.
Book Rec:
Assistant to the Villain
by Hannah Nicole Maehrer
A girl takes a job with a notorious villain and quickly discovers there’s a lot more to him than meets the eye.
The Reader Easter Egg
My Vote: Amber Glenn & Pasha Pashkov.
Inspiring, captivating, and spicy.
Book Rec:
The Emotional Damage Award
My Vote: Tatyana Ali and Jan Ravnik
The mirror at the end though...chills.
Book Rec:
The Midnight Library
by Matt Haig
A woman gets the chance to explore all the lives she could have lived and discovers that finding yourself can be its own kind of second chance.
Published Sep 22, 2026
Last Updated Sep 23, 2026
